The use of selenium as animal feed supplement in Serbia was
approved in 1989 for some categories of pigs, sheep and poultry. From 2000
selenium in animal feed became a requirement for all categories of farm animals.
The aim of this study was to determine the consumption of selenium by Serbian
livestock and in poultry production between 1990-1991 and 2000-2008 and to
analyze the selenium content of meat, milk and eggs sold on Serbian markets to
gain insight into human selenium intake. Data indicate a low level of selenium
inclusion in animal feed during 1990-1991 compared to during 2000-2008. These
results coincide with Serbian regulations. From 2001 an organic form of selenium
(selenized yeast) was introduced in small quantities (less than 8% of the total
consumed selenium). Analysis of meat, milk and eggs from Serbian markets shows
increased selenium levels compared to 1991. However, the estimated total human
daily intake in Serbia is 40.9 µg, which is under the recommended quantity.
Increasing the quantity of selenium included in animal feed and the substitution of
inorganic selenium with selenized yeast could be beneficial for animal health and
farm productivity. As a consequence a further improvement in the human selenium
status in Serbia should be possible.